NICK Riewoldt remains open to relinquishing the St Kilda captaincy as he works towards a contract extension.

Riewoldt had said during the season that ''ideally for the club's development'' he would not retain the top role beyond 2012 but there is still strong support for him among his teammates to continue for an eighth season.

St Kilda's head of football, Chris Pelchen, said the captaincy would be discussed soon.

''No decision has been made on the captaincy for 2013. This will be discussed in coming weeks as part of our leadership program, with no time frame on an appointment at this stage,'' he said.

''Nick has said he will support whatever the club believes is the best outcome for next year, whether that be retaining or relinquishing the role.''

The newly married Riewoldt, 30, is the Saints' second-longest serving captain, behind Danny Frawley. He had nominated Brendon Goddard as a possible successor but the midfielder has moved to Essendon.

Returning from a knee reconstruction last season, champion midfielder Lenny Hayes relinquished the vice-captaincy but was given the special role of leadership mentor.

Riewoldt's four-year contract expires after next season but negotiations have begun for an extension.

The superstar forward has been one of the highest-paid players for most of his career, earning about $1 million last season.

The Saints could be one of four clubs to change captains over summer. Carlton has yet to determine whether Chris Judd retains the role under new coach Mick Malthouse, Collingwood will discuss whether it's time for Nick Maxwell to hand over to Scott Pendlebury, while Trent Cotchin appears certain to replace Chris Newman at Richmond. Newman has stood himself down.

■The Western Bulldogs have confirmed a coaching reshuffle, announcing on Saturday that former West Coast premiership player Ashley Hansen will join as development coach for 2013.

The appointment means Rohan Smith will move into an assistant's role, focusing on defence, while Brett Montgomery will become a full-time strategy and opposition coach.